“This study looks at aging in the context of the whole genome and gives us a more complete picture of what aging is,” said lead author Dr Brian Kennedy.

"Almost half of the genes we found that affect aging are conserved in mammals.

"Our best results were single gene deletions that increased lifespan by around 60 per cent compared to normal yeast."

Dr Mark McCormick, Buck Institute

"In theory, any of these factors could be therapeutic targets to extend healthspan. What we have to do now is figure out which ones are amenable to targeting.”

To determine which genes were responsible for ageing, researchers examined 4,698 strains of yeast, each with a single gene deletion and then monitored how long cells lived for before they stopped dividing.

They found that deleting a gene called LOS1 produced particularly impressive results, extending life by 60 per cent. LOS1 is linked to a genetic master switch which has long been associated with calorie restriction through fasting and increased lifespan.

"Calorie restriction has been known to extend lifespan for a long time," added Dr. Kennedy.

Co-author Dr Mark McCormick, of the Buck Institute said: "Our best results were single gene deletions that increased lifespan by around 60 per cent compared to normal yeast."

Switching off the gene LOS1 appears to mimic fastingCredit:
PEGAZ/Alamy

Earlier this year academics from the University of Southern California found that a five day diet which mimics fasting can slow down ageing, add years to life, boost the immune system and cut the risk of heart disease and cancer.